Federal spending pays for 200 jobs in Yuba County

Mid-Valley shops, restaurants, nonprofits and government agencies will employ hundreds of young people this summer — and pay them with federal stimulus dollars.

The funding is part of a $1.2 billion program approved by Congress in February to provide short-term work training and employment for disadvantaged 14- to 24-year-olds.

Sheila Moore, a Yuba County One Stop training and employment counselor, said the $465,000 share allocated for Yuba County will pay minimum wage salaries for up to 200 youth jobs, as well as transportation vouchers and other work-related expenses.

Most who have shown interest are still enrolled in public school. They will begin their summer job on or about June 15, after the school year comes to an end.

But late this week, four participants in their 20s, were ready to start working. Their job sites include a nursing care facility, an auto body shop, and the Gold Sox Baseball office.

"They really got the dollars down to us fast," Yuba County One Stop Director Patti Clary said of the $465,000. Job assignments are still being worked out for the majority of those who have expressed interest in the program, she said.

Many of the older employee participants are high school dropouts who have since enrolled in adult education programs. Some have completed high school equivalency requirements, according to Moore.

"They know that in this economy, trying to get a job without having that piece of paper is very difficult," she said.

Most, said Clary, "have very little work experience."

The program, she said, "teaches a work ethic and responsibility, and gives them a chance to try out their interests."

A large baseball mural project, currently in planning stages, could employ up to 18 young workers when it begins June 15. The artwork will cover part of the fencing around All Seasons RV Stadium — home of the Gold Sox — in Marysville, and is being headed by Louie Lethridge, a celebrated local muralist.

Other opportunities are being developed at Beale Air Force Base, where about 20 young people from several counties are expected to be employed, Clary said.

Some will be put to work on maintenance projects at Sierra View Memorial Park and Beckwourth Riverfront Park.

And a low-income housing project in Wheatland will hire at least one participant to help run youth activities at its community center.

"It's all about getting them (youth) some work experience, and to teach them job responsibility," said Clary. "And ultimately, it will help the economy if these kids can contribute."

Contact Appeal-Democrat reporter Nancy Pasternack at 749-4712 or at npasternack@appealdemocrat.com.